As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, Halloween often brings a focus on darkness, mystery, and things that may seem frightening. However, for Christians, Halloween can be an opportunity to remind ourselves that the light of Christ continues to shine through the deepest darkness. No matter how long the night, the light of Jesus perseveres, bringing hope and joy in the face of fear.
In a world where costumes and spooky decorations are the norm, it’s easy to get caught up in the eerie and unsettling aspects of Halloween. But for us, dressing up — whether as superheroes, princesses, or even monsters — isn’t a cause for fear. It can be a lighthearted reminder that we have no reason to be afraid of evil because Christ has already triumphed over the powers of darkness. As it says in 1 John 4:4, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
Our kids may encounter images of skeletons and ghosts, but we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus has conquered death. Satan, demons, and the fear of the grave no longer hold power over us because of the victory Christ won on the cross. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:55, “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” Through Christ’s resurrection, we are no longer slaves to fear, and this truth gives us strength to face life — and Halloween — with joy.
It’s also important to remember that Halloween is followed by All Saints’ Day. While Halloween may focus on things that seem frightening or dark, All Saints’ Day brings us the blessed reminder that physical death is not the end. Just as All Saints’ Day follows Halloween, the promise of resurrection follows physical death for all believers. On this day, we remember the saints who have gone before us and celebrate the eternal life that awaits them and us because of Christ’s victory.
So, as we enjoy the candy, costumes, and fun of Halloween, let’s do so with confidence and joy, knowing that the true light, Jesus Christ, continues to shine through every season of life. Halloween can be a celebration of the power of Christ to overcome evil and death, just as He calls us to be His light in the world.
May you and your family have a joyful and Christ-centered Halloween, filled with the assurance that, in the face of darkness, the light of Christ shines brightly, leading us to the eternal hope we have in Him.
